Building European identity by watching history through several eyes

We wanted to make students aware of the different images and representations of history, media, and cultural heritage by encouraging them to research key questions. We also guided them to explore ...

We wanted to make students aware of the different images and representations of history, media, and cultural heritage by encouraging them to research key questions. We also guided them to explore how nations commemorated World War I, analyzing the ways in which remembrance practices reflected national identity and historical interpretation. By comparing various sources, they discovered how certain narratives were reinforced while others were downplayed or omitted. Through this research, students developed a deeper understanding of how history was shaped, remembered, and sometimes distorted, fostering critical thinking and greater international awareness. The exchange of these ideas broadened minds and reinforced the meaning of European citizenship. It also sharpened critical thinking and active citizenship, ensuring that our students wouldn’t be easily fooled by propaganda or fake news. By making youngsters aware of how information and disinformation influenced people’s opinions, we hoped to broaden their minds so they wouldn’t become easy victims of radicalization, but rather active citizens.

The project involved a variety of activities. The first activity focused on a kickoff meeting where initial discussions set the stage for the project. It was followed by media training, which included workshops on creating podcasts, helping participants develop communication skills. Three student mobility activities took place, each providing the opportunity for students to travel to different European countries—North Macedonia, Italy, and Belgium. These exchanges involved both hosting and visiting activities, promoting cultural exchange and collaboration. The project management aspect ensured that the project's overall goals were kept on track, while public events were organized to engage the broader community in the project’s themes, such as the impact of information and disinformation. Dissemination activities culminated in a final coordinator meeting, designed to share the outcomes and lessons learned with a wider audience.

One of the major achievements was the increased research on the First World War from a regional perspective. Another important outcome was the development of skills in analyzing propaganda and fostering critical thinking. These skills encouraged participants to examine information with a more critical eye and question the narratives presented to them. A significant result was the creation of learning materials, designed to be used in various countries. These materials will be integrated into the students' curricula over the coming years, making them valuable educational resources. Additionally, these materials will be accessible on international platforms, allowing for wider distribution and impact. The culmination of the project was the creation of a podcast, which summarized the journey and the results of the project from a Belgian point of view. To further enhance its reach and impact, a video component was added to the podcast, providing visuals.This multimedia result ensures that the project's lessons and insights will continue to inspire and inform long after its conclusion.